Dunedin Mayor David Cull joined Botanic Garden team leader Alan Matchett and co-ordinator of the Dunedin Hare Krishna Cultural Centre Jane Beecroft in planting the tree.
Mr Cull called the event "symbolically significant".
"This reminds me of just how diverse Dunedin has become. I think we’ve probably been like this for a while, but I see it growing."
The Hare Krishna movement is based on the idea of "simple living and high thinking".
The recently re-elected mayor said he found it difficult to see this practice as anything but a good thing.
"The world is becoming increasingly consumer driven, competitive, and the Hare Krishna movement reminds us that there are positive alternatives in terms of fulfilment," Mr Cull said.
Jane Beecroft has been a Hare Krishna adherent for more than 35 years.
"I wanted to make a difference in the world and so in a joyful way," Ms Beecroft said.
She and other members of the Dunedin Hare Krishna Cultural Centre feed more than 200 students daily through the Otago University Students’ Association.
"We believe that no-one should ever go hungry. We’ve already planted five fruit trees along the front of our centre. We want to make it so people can just come past, pick some fruit and eat it.
"She hoped the kowhai tree would have a long life, and was happy with its location in the botanic garden, Ms Beecroft said.
"It’s the perfect spot, right by the gate as you walk in.
"The kowhai is significant too, being native to New Zealand. If we all see our commonality, then there’s no need for trouble."
- Luke Tumaru
