The Empire Hotel is situated on the corner of Princess and Main Streets, has historic associations with Palmerston North - as it was the city's first school. In 1890 the school was relocated to Campbell Street and the building was converted into a hotel and has since been a popular hotel both for local residents and visitors to the city.

The hotel was bought by Mark Donaldson and Mike Banks in 1990- who set out to completely renovate the building back to its original style - a huge task that was finally completed in 1996.

The Empire Hotel was then purchased by Trinity Group in November 2004.

The Trinity Group is a hospitality company with many establishments throughout the lower North Island from Hawkes Bay through to Wellington. The Hotel was sold to EPHG Investment Company in April 2006, with Trinity Group retaining the management contract.

Accommodation

We have 14 rooms available for guests. Each room has an ensuite bathroom, tea/coffee making facilities and SKY TV.

We are happy to arrange rooms for your guests at a special rate. Corporate and group rates available on request.

Restaurant

Our Empire Family Restaurant is open 7 days a week from Monday - Friday 7.30am till late, Saturday & Sunday 8am till late. We can cater for everyone, families, seniors, couples and groups. We are happy to arrange for you to have a group dinner brfore your function. A copy of our full restaurant menu is available at www.theempirehotel.co.nz. Gluten free & vegetarian meals also available. No surcharges on public holidays.

Bar

The Empire Hotel has two popular bars - incorporating three distinctive areas including:

Sports Bar
With 18 gaming machines, TAB facilities, a pool table, covered smoking area and an extensive food menu - some meals include a free drink.

Nightclub
A great bar if you want to watch live Super 14 rugby action or if you want to party the night away, the old 'Cobb Bar', as its affectionately known, is one of the most popular bars in town. An excellent DJ has the crowds going wild every Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Without a doubt the best place in town to enjoy a fun night out.

Balcony Bar
An ideal spot for a cold ale on a sunny afternoon or cool down after a hard days work on the only balcony bar in Palmerston North. The Balcony Bar is also available for private functions more information on these can be found under our functions link.