THE Empire Hotel STORY

Bespoke Apartments in
the Heart of Timaru

With six bespoke apartments across two levels, The Empire Hotel offers a high-end experience in central Timaru. The restoration and design by Deborah Still Interior Design, carefully shaped every detail to honour the building’s 1906 heritage.

Interiors feature a blend of bespoke pieces and hand-selected vintage finds, creating a layered, collected feel. Nothing is off-the-shelf; every element has been chosen with purpose to provide a high-design retreat.

Close-up of a dark green fleece jacket with the word "EOHI" and a lion's face embroidered in orange, with a person in a white shirt in the background.
A woman with long, wavy blonde hair, wearing a sleeveless floral dress, is smiling while eating at a restaurant. There is a glass of rosé wine and a glass of water on the table, with large green plants in the background.
A man and woman walking up a staircase inside a building, carrying bags, smiling and talking to each other.

Exactly where you want to be

The Empire Hotel connects you to the best of Timaru. Begin the morning with a stroll to the sands of Caroline Bay or a coffee from one of Stafford Street’s cafés. Spend the day exploring local galleries, boutiques, or the South Canterbury coastline before returning to the quiet of your private apartment.

While the city’s energy sits just outside, our apartments provide a quiet, high-design retreat for those who value historic character and a distinctly local experience.

A man and a woman standing near a window in a kitchen, looking outside with contemplative expressions.
Close-up of a bed with white pillows and decorative cushions, a bedside lamp, and dark curtains in a bedroom with soft lighting.
Close-up view of a historic building with intricate architectural details, windows, and a fire escape, partially reflecting in the windows.

The Legacy of
The Empire Hotel

Constructed in 1906, The Empire Hotel has stood proudly on Church Street for over a century, witnessing the growth and transformation of Timaru. Built in the Edwardian style, its arched windows and detailed plasterwork reflect a time of confidence and permanence, following the rebuilding of the town after the Great Fire of 1868. In its early years, the hotel was a lively hub for farmers, travellers, and the local community, woven into the rhythm of daily life.

Today, The Empire Hotel has been meticulously restored. Under the direction of Deborah Still Interior Design, its architectural integrity has been preserved while its interiors have been thoughtfully adapted for modern living. Each space reflects a deep respect for the building’s past, balanced with a refined, contemporary sensibility. The result is a Timaru landmark, carefully brought back to life.

We look forward to hosting you

We’ve created a place to slow down, settle in, and experience Timaru with ease. To preserve the building’s 1906 heritage, access to our two levels is via stairs only (no elevator). Secure parking is located a short, five-minute walk from the hotel entrance. Whether you’re visiting for a special occasion or a working stay, every detail has been thoughtfully prepared for your arrival.

Book now
Book now