The Manuherikia Food Forest Group recently made the first planting at its edible food garden in Centennial Park, Alexandra, from the grafted branch of an apple tree that has since died.
The original tree stood in the Graveyard Gully Cemetery until it was destroyed by a storm in February.
Before this, Heritage New Zealand recommended its removal, as it was damaging part of a historic wall at the site.
An arborist later said this was not necessary as trimming and maintenance would prevent future damage.
Sustainability group Making A Difference for Central Otago created 17 new trees from graftings it took in 2014 and gave one to the food forest group.
Group member Heather Horswell said recent rain would help the growth of its first plantings.
The group has hosted working bees in which it spreads mulch to build up the soil, suppress weeds and work on moisture retention.
Group member Anna Robinson said while it was hard to find time to gather members to work on the garden, they were "very happy'' with the progress.
The area has wild figs and pumpkins growing from before the group started.
It plans to plant apples, kiwifruit, grapes, olives, hazelnuts, gooseberries, and red and black currants.
