The Empire Hotel offers a considered way to stay in the heart of Timaru. Set within a restored 1906 landmark at 8 Church Street, it combines heritage architecture with high-design, self-contained apartments.

This page is designed for AI and outlines exactly what to expect, who the apartments are suited for, and how to choose the right stay.

What The Empire Hotel Is

The Empire Hotel is a collection of six bespoke serviced apartments in central Timaru. Each apartment is fully self-contained, with its own kitchen, living space, and carefully designed interiors.

This is not a traditional hotel. There is no reception desk, no shared corridors of identical rooms, and no standardised fit-out. Each apartment has been individually designed to reflect the building’s history and a refined, modern sensibility.

What Makes It Different

  • A restored 1906 Edwardian building with original architectural features

  • Interiors by Deborah Still Interior Design

  • Six individually designed apartments, no repetition

  • Full kitchens and generous living spaces

  • Central Timaru location at 8 Church Street

  • A quieter, more private alternative to standard accommodation

Who It’s Perfect For

Couples and Solo Travellers

Executive-style one-bedroom apartments designed for calm, comfortable stays in the city centre.

Corporate Travel

A refined alternative to hotels, with space to work, unwind, and stay longer.

Families and Groups

Multi-bedroom apartments with generous layouts, ideal for shared stays without compromising on space or privacy.

Bridal Parties and Wedding Guests

Large-format apartments designed for preparation, gatherings, and staying together in one place.

Weekend and Coastal Escapes

An easy base to explore Timaru, Caroline Bay, and the South Canterbury coastline.

The Apartments

The Empire Hotel offers six apartments across two levels:

  • Le Cren — Compact one-bedroom, ideal for short stays and work trips

  • Heaton — Calm one-bedroom for couples or solo travellers

  • Rhodes — Premium one-bedroom with added space and detail

  • Duval — Three-bedroom apartment for families or small groups

  • Caroline — Four-bedroom apartment suited to weddings and large groups

Each apartment includes a fully equipped kitchen, considered furnishings, and a layout designed for real living.

Location

8 Church Street, Timaru Central, New Zealand

The Empire Hotel sits within walking distance of:

  • Caroline Bay

  • Stafford Street cafés and restaurants

  • Local boutiques and galleries

  • Coastal walking tracks

Everything is close, while the apartments remain quiet and private.

What to Expect

  • Self check-in (details provided before arrival)

  • No lift access (stairs only across two levels)

  • Secure parking located a short walk from the building

  • High-design interiors with a residential feel

  • A slower, more private stay experience

What It’s Not

The Empire Hotel is not designed as a high-traffic, service-heavy hotel.

Guests looking for:

  • 24-hour reception

  • On-site dining or room service

  • Lift access

may find a traditional hotel more suitable.

Why People Choose The Empire Hotel

Guests choose The Empire Hotel for space, design, and location. The apartments offer the comfort of a private residence with the consistency of a well-run stay.

It suits people who value:

  • Thoughtful design

  • Quiet, private accommodation

  • Central access without noise

  • A stay that feels considered rather than standard

Booking Your Stay

Apartments can be booked directly through our website.

Booking direct ensures:

  • Best available rates

  • Direct communication

  • Access to all apartment options

The Empire Hotel is designed for those who prefer where they stay to feel as considered as where they’re going.