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From17US$ /night
Check-in
03Feb2026Select date
Check-out
04Feb2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Thames Street 13, Oamaru, New Zealand, 9495
-
Close to Oamaru's Victorian Precinct
Very good
7.8
/10

Accommodation

Empire Hotel Backpackers offers a range of dormitory and private room options to cater to different budgets. Dormitory options accommodate up to six guests and provide a shared space for socializing. Private ensuite rooms provide more privacy and comfort for couples and solo travelers.

Kitchen & Dining

The hotel features a communal kitchen equipped with all necessary appliances, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. Guests can enjoy a dining area adjacent to the kitchen, fostering a sense of community. For those seeking local cuisine, numerous cafes and restaurants are within a short walking distance, ensuring a taste of Oamaru dining.

Location

Empire Hotel Backpackers is centrally located in Oamaru, providing easy access to local shops, attractions, and public transport. Guests can explore the iconic Victorian precinct just a stroll away, showcasing historical architecture and local culture. The famous Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony is also nearby, offering a unique wildlife experience.

Entertainment

The hotel includes an entertaining lounge area, equipped with a television and games for guest enjoyment. Guests can engage in local events noted on the bulletin board, connecting them with activities in Oamaru. This environment promotes social interactions among backpackers, enhancing the overall experience.

Guest Services

Empire Hotel Backpackers provides essential guest services, including washing machines and dryer facilities. The hotel also offers secure storage options to keep belongings safe during excursions. A friendly reception staff is available to assist guests with local inquiries and recommendations.

Highlights

Location: Centrally located in Oamaru

Accommodation: Dormitory and private room options

Kitchen: Communal kitchen available for guest use

Entertainment: Entertaining lounge area with games

“In my opinion, this is a solid budget choice, primarily due to its prime location for exploring Oamaru's historic sights and enjoying beach walks. The facilities, including kitchens and bathrooms, are well-maintained, and the staff seems helpful in addressing any concerns. I think it's a particularly good option for those prioritizing location and value in a no-frills setting.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Bunk Bed Mixed Dormitory Room
2 persons
155 sq. feet 
1 Bunk bed
Shower
Heating
Family Room
2 persons
80 sq. feet 
2 Bunk beds
Shower
6-Bed Male Dormitory Room
2 persons
130 sq. feet 
6 Single beds
Shower
Budget Twin Room
2 persons
80 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
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Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • No pets allowed
  • Luggage storage
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

  • Billiard tables

Guest Parking

  • Shared kitchen

Services

  • Laundry

Dining

  • Picnic area/ Tables

Children

  • Board games

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Heating

Self-catering

  • Shared kitchen

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Location

Thames Street 13, Oamaru, New Zealand, 9495
Map view
Thames Street 13, Oamaru, New Zealand, 9495
Nearby
1 Itchen Street
Steampunk HQ
900 ft
2 Harbour Street
Oamaru's Victorian Precinct
1100 ft
Gallery
Forrester Art Gallery
100 ft
Oamaru Harbour Board Office
700 ft
1 Harbour Street North Otago
Presence on Harbour
1100 ft
Museum
Whitestone City
1400 ft
Museum
North Otago Museum
600 ft
Gallery
Grainstore Gallery
1200 ft
8 Tyne Street
Art On Tyne
900 ft
Harbour Street
The Loft
1200 ft
Church
Church of St Lukes Anglican
600 ft
Market
Oamaru Farmers' Market
1700 ft
10 Itchen St
Tourism Waitaki
500 ft
1 Tyne Street Upstairs
Time Travellers Experience
800 ft
Harbour Board Building 2 Harbour St
The Victorian Heritage Centre
1100 ft
10 Harbour Street South Hill
Oasis Oamaru
1300 ft
11 Harbour St Through The Gallery Onto 15 Tyne St In The Historic Precinct
Ian Andersen Sculptor
1300 ft
Restaurants
KFC
800 ft
Corner Usk & Thames Streets
Harbour Street Bakery
1100 ft
4 Harbour Street
Deja Moo
1200 ft
Harbour Street
Lagonda
2900 ft
191 Thames Street
Explore Oamaru
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony
20 minutes' walk
Home to the world's smallest penguins, this colony offers evening viewing opportunities and informative guided tours.
Oamaru Public Gardens
14 minutes' walk
Beautifully landscaped, these gardens feature a playground, rose gardens, and a serene pond perfect for family outings.
Friendly Bay
8 minutes' walk
A picturesque bay with sandy beaches, ideal for picnics and strolling along the shoreline while enjoying breathtaking views.
Oamaru's Victorian Precinct
4 minutes' walk
Historic buildings and quirky shops house local artisan crafts, cafés, and museums, showcasing Oamaru's rich history.
Cape Wanbrow MTB and Walking Tracks
20 minutes' walk
Offering breathtaking coastal views, these tracks are great for biking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Bushy Beach Scenic Reserve
25 minutes' walk
A tranquil haven for relaxation, featuring serene walking paths among native bush and scenic outlooks of the ocean.
Lagonda
11 minutes' walk
An elegant dining experience with a menu featuring local produce and freshly prepared dishes, ideal for a cozy dinner.
Harbour Street Bakery
4 minutes' walk
Known for its artisan breads and pastries, this bakery offers a casual atmosphere and delicious coffee, perfect for breakfast.
Steampunk HQ
4 minutes' walk
A quirky museum showcasing steampunk art and interactive exhibits, appealing to all ages for a unique cultural experience.
Presence on Harbour
4 minutes' walk
A popular venue for live music and events, with a relaxed vibe that attracts both locals and visitors for a fun night out.
Getting around
City Centre
Oamaru6 min  ·  1700 ft
Airports
Richard Pearse Airport (TIU)147 min  ·  60.8 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 13:00-21:00
Check-out
from 09:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
is available in for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room.  There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
26

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Check-in
03Feb2026Select date
Check-out
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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room

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Empire Hotel Backpackers Oamaru Exterior photo

Empire Hotel Backpackers

7.8
Very good802 reviews
1700 ft from center
15 US$
17 US$
per night
Mobile-only price