A characterful base in the heart of Oamaru
Empire Hotel Backpackers offers a comfortable, relaxed and characterful base for travellers looking to explore Oamaru on foot. Set in a wonderfully central location, the property places guests within easy walking distance of the town centre, the Victorian precinct and many of the area's popular attractions, which makes it particularly convenient for short stays, sightseeing trips and stopovers. Guests also appreciate the ample free parking, adding extra convenience for those travelling by car.
With its historic character and distinctive old-world charm, the hotel has a quirky personality that sets it apart from more modern, standardised accommodation. The welcoming communal areas provide plenty of space to unwind after a day of exploring, including a convivial lounge where guests can relax, read, socialise or enjoy the warmth of the log burner, and a selection of books adds to the homely atmosphere.
The accommodation offers a choice of private rooms and dormitory-style options, making it suitable for solo travellers, couples, families and groups. Rooms are straightforward and thoughtfully equipped with the essentials for a practical stay, while guests frequently appreciate the comfortable beds and warm atmosphere, particularly during cooler months. The property also provides well-equipped shared kitchens, giving guests the flexibility to prepare their own meals.
Above all, Empire Hotel Backpackers is about location, value and a genuine backpacker experience. Whether stopping overnight, exploring the Victorian quarter or using Oamaru as part of a wider New Zealand journey, guests can enjoy an affordable and conveniently located place to stay with plenty of character.
What guests find here
Free on-site parking, free Wi-Fi in all areas, family rooms and non-smoking rooms are all part of the stay, together with a shared lounge and TV area, well-equipped shared kitchens, a garden and picnic area, a pool table, board games, heating throughout, luggage storage and a laundry service available for an additional charge. Bathrooms are shared and come with showers and hairdryers, and the whole property is smoke-free with a designated smoking area outside.
Rooms for every kind of traveller
Choose from budget double and twin rooms, a single room, a family room, and female, male and mixed dormitories with bunk beds. Every room is carpeted, heated, non-smoking and served by shared bathrooms with showers and hairdryers, and free Wi-Fi reaches every corner of the building.
RoomsWhat guests say
A few words from travellers who have stayed with us in Oamaru. Select any of them to check dates and book directly.
"I came to see the penguins and steampunk HQ and it was just right around the corner from the Victorian quarter. Super close walk to everything. The bathrooms and rooms were much cleaner than I thought they would be."
Sophia - United States
"Awesome location, good heater, very clean, library of books, the other people staying there, spacious kitchen."
Linda - United States
"Bruce the mighty runs a very nice place with a victorian vibe and interesting basement area."
Rami - Israel
"Room was very clean and tidy, facilities were great, the people at the hostel were so friendly and helpful. Location was amazing and everything was in walking distance."
Graham - New Zealand
"The staff were wonderful and on top of things. It's a great location and good value for money."
Alexandra - Canada
"The location was close to attractions such as the penguin viewing colony and historic precinct as well as the supermarket, cafes and restaurants as well as ATMs."
Yx - Singapore
Ready to stay in historic Oamaru?
Book directly with Empire Hotel Backpackers and secure your bed in the middle of town, steps from the Victorian precinct and the harbour.
Book now