Great central location, close to attractions and free public parking nearby.

The room and property were in need of renovation. the shower area and rooms could have used a makeover, and the carpets and paint were worn out.

We had a fantastic stay at a cute and historic hostel with friendly staff. the hostel had good facilities, a comfortable common area, and a cozy fire downstairs. We were impressed with the helpful advice on seeing penguins for free. the location was convenient, being in the city center and close to the beach. it was a nice and friendly place, and we would definitely stay here again.

Liked everything! 😊

great backpacker accommodation, friendly staff, fantastic location near attractions. exceeded expectations in warmth and cleanliness, felt like home.

unclear staff identification

Great value for money with comfortable rooms and a central location. The staff were friendly and accommodating, even allowing for flexible check-out times and providing a free left luggage room.

The breakfast menu could use some improvement, with a wider variety of options available.

had a charming stay at a historic building hostel in Oamaru, with friendly and knowledgeable staff who gave great advice on seeing penguins for free. Loved the comfortable common area and the personal touches. So glad places like this still exist in NZ!

Noisy door slamming on Friday night.

Great location, near downtown and waterfront. Clean rooms and kitchen. Friendly staff. Comfortable beds. Convenient parking.

Great location, accessible to attractions and penguin colony. Warm and comfortable rooms with electric blankets and heaters. Friendly and accessible staff.

Felt cosy, nothing too much trouble.

The quirky building had a billiard table, piano, and guitar in the basement, offering a unique touch. the staff, who were friendly and respectful, made us feel welcome and comfortable during our stay. the rooms were surprisingly nice for a backpacker's place, and the bed was the best I've slept on in a hostel. the location was perfect, close to the bus stop, cafes, and restaurants. And to top it all off, the living room fire provided a cozy and warm atmosphere on chilly evenings. Highly recommended!

The location of the hotel is perfect, situated in the historic center close to attractions like the Steampunk museum. The building itself is beautiful and the rooms are cozy and comfortable. The bathrooms are clean and well-maintained. there are two well-equipped kitchens available for guests to use.

The fridges in the kitchen had a strong unpleasant smell, which was quite off-putting.

Great value for money, rooms were basic but clean and tidy. Perfect location for exploring, everything within easy walking distance. The staff went above and beyond, making us feel welcome and engaging with all visitors.

Breakfast option could be improved with more variety.

The location, building, 2 kitchens, owner, free wifi.

Nothing to dislike.

The hostel had a perfect location, right near all the attractions, with free parking available nearby. The staff were friendly and the free wifi was a major plus.

The beds were flimsy and uncomfortable, and the bathroom area was co-ed. It seemed like there was no one in charge and no helpful information available.

I stayed at Empire Backpackers for a short trip and loved the central location, quirky atmosphere, and friendly staff. The Victorian-era building had a billiard table, piano, and guitar in the basement, and there were two kitchens and sitting areas available. The rooms were nice considering the price, and I appreciated the 10GB free Wi-Fi allowance. a highly recommended stay!

Would be happy to recommend this hotel.

Great value for money, cozy room with character and cute bedding. The hotel's location in the city centre was excellent, and the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, treating us like family.

The morning breakfast selection could have been better, with more variety and options.

The value for money at the Empire Hotel Backpackers was excellent. The room was comfortable and clean, with a warm and cozy atmosphere. The location was perfect, within walking distance of many attractions. The staff were extremely friendly and always available.

The breakfast experience could be improved with more variety.