Experience Timaru’s most character-rich stay.

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The Empire Hotel offers a new way to stay in the heart of Timaru.

Expansive suites, considered interiors, and the serene warmth of a stay that feels like home. Find us at 8 Church Street, Timaru Central.

EXPLORE APARTMENTS

WELCOME TO THE EMPIRE HOTEL TIMARU

A living room corner with a navy wingback chair that has silver nailhead trim, draped with a plaid throw blanket. A portion of a beige sofa with a plaid fabric is visible in the foreground. A framed painting of an abstract cityscape hangs on the wall nearby.
View of a Gothic-style church tower with trees in the foreground and a cloudy sky in the background.
Modern kitchen with white cabinets, a dark mosaic backsplash, and a central island with two black stools. Large windows with patterned blinds, and a chandelier hanging from the ceiling.

Set within a landmark Edwardian hotel, The Empire Hotel reimagines historic grandeur as six bespoke serviced apartments. Each generous, self-contained space is perfect for families, corporate travellers, or those gathering for a special occasion. Offering a heritage retreat in the heart of Timaru.

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Close-up view of the historic Empire Hotel building with a pale green facade, white decorative moldings, and large arched windows in an urban area.

Our story

From its 1906 origins to its meticulous restoration, The Empire Hotel now stands beautifully renewed. Its architectural character has been thoughtfully preserved, establishing it as the premier boutique accommodation experience in Timaru.

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View through doorway into a kitchen with open shelving, dark mosaic tile backsplash, and a brown kitchen island with a black stool.

stay

Six serviced apartments. Each is named in honour of Timaru’s early pioneers. From the aviation spirit of Pearse to the maritime roots of Caroline, our spacious suites offer a unique heritage stay in South Canterbury.

Discover our apartments
A man and woman sitting on a sofa in a cozy kitchen, smiling and talking, with the woman holding a coffee mug and the man holding a book.

explore

Perfectly positioned to experience the best of Timaru. Step out to Stafford Street’s boutiques, enjoy a morning coffee, or wander the shoreline of Caroline Bay. The Empire Hotel places you at the very center of everything Timaru has to offer.

DISCOVER TIMARU

experience The best boutique apartments in Timaru

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step inside our world
@Empirehotel.nz

The Empire Hotel is a labour of love, and we are proud to share it. From corporate travel to special celebrations and weekend escapes, every stay is designed to be seamless and memorable.

The Empire Hotel Team

To celebrate the launch, we’re giving you the chance to enjoy a two-night stay at The Empire Hotel, along with dinner at The Oxford. To enter: Follow @theempirehoteltimaru (1 entry) Tag a friend in the comments (each tag = 1 entry) Join our Gu
A place to stay, and a place to explore. The beach, cafés, galleries, and the coastline all just minutes from your door. This is your sign to visit Timaru. The Empire Hotel. 8 Church Street, Timaru Central.
A collection of details that make the stay. Soft light, textured finishes, pieces with a past. We can’t wait to welcome you. The Empire Hotel. 8 Church Street, Timaru Central. www.empirehotel.nz
A place to check in and switch off. Morning walks to the bay, long lunches, late afternoons that stretch a little longer than planned. Right in the centre of Timaru, exactly where you want to be. The Empire Hotel. 8 Church Street, Timaru Central.
The Empire Hotel Timaru. A heritage retreat offering boutique accommodation in the heart of Timaru, designed to be memorable. 
8 Church Street, Timaru Central.
From corporate travel to weekend escapes and special occasions. A flexible, apartment-style stay is waiting for you at The Empire Hotel. 
8 Church Street, Timaru Central.

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