The Empire is in a great location, just around the corner from the gorgeous historial disctrict of Oamaru (make sure you take a wander down the lane ways in the morning when the shops and galleries are open). There is also a bakery cafe next door, and a supermarket/post office down the main street a bit. It's about a twenty... more

The hostel was fine, a big old boarding house type of building not far from the water. But lots of little things made it less than great, such as... no towels, sometimes no soap at the sink, a disappearing staffperson (not totally unfriendly, just not around), windows that wouldn't lock, being told we couldn't use our laptop (though their computers... more

Everyone goes to Oamaru for the penguins and the Empire Backpackers is in a great location, within walking distance of the penguin centre. The hostel is very clean and warm. There are laundry facilities and two lounges and best of all, free internet access. The beds were a little soft for my liking, but overall this is a great place... more