The Canterbury District Health Board is suggesting that gardens and land around Christchurch be turned into edible gardens.
The DHB has proposed planting trees and plants in council-owned green spaces which can be accessed by the public.
Medical Officer of Health Alistair Humphrey says there is a lot of potential for turning parks into orchards in the central city.
Dr Humphrey says the Christchurch City Council would provide oversight and members of the public can join in with the care of the trees and plants, then help themselves to the produce.