But Otago Regional Council land resources manager Susie McKeague said the community activity did not reveal any species that were sensitive to pollution, including stone flies and mayflies, and that was a concern.
"If you found them, that would show the stream was in really good health, because they are the first ones to disappear.
"We're seeing a lot of development here, and we have to be careful what's coming off building sites and ending up in waterways."
Lake Wakatipu is ranked first and Lake Wanaka second for water quality out of the 77 sites the regional council tests every two months.
However, the authority does not regularly test waterways like Horne Creek because it is an expensive process.
A study of the creek about four years ago found slightly elevated levels of nitrogen and e-coli at times, higher up the catchment, which were attributed to agricultural activity.
The Village Green event aimed to raise awareness of the value of streams in a fun way.
Ms McKeague said more than 20 people heard talks, saw demonstrations and participated in activities.
"It's for children to develop an appreciation of the water cycle and how our actions can influence the health of the waterways," she said.
The regional council, Wanaka Wastebusters and Sustainable Wanaka host Wanaka's Family Stream Day beside Bullock Creek today.
