Astronauts, aliens and martians are expected to land at Memorial Park tomorrow to try out the new Rocket Slide at a family fun day opening the long-awaited monument.

Children are being encouraged to dress in theme to be in to win great spot prizes, with the 11am- 2pmfun day featuring roving performers, storytelling and a free barbecue thanks to Project Tauranga partner Placemakers.

Tauranga City Council Mayor Stuart Crosby says Memorial Park has had a rocket slide since the 1960s, 'forming a big part of the childhood memories of many people who have grown up here”.

And he has no doubt the new slide will be as popular as the two previous incarnations.

'The new Rocket Slide will be something really special for our city that is sure to become a firm favourite with both children and parents alike.”

The new slide has been designed with input from council parks staff, and Placemakers Mount Maunganui providing construction materials and labour.

The original rocket slide was replaced in 1985 and was due for renewal this year but had to be closed last October after failing a safety inspection.

The new slide is built in a more prominent location nearer to the Memorial Park fountain.

For more information on the fun day, visit www.tauranga.govt.nz