The countdown is over. Today is the day for the launch of the new rocket slide at memorial fun.

What better way to celebrate the launch, than with an action packed family fun day.

The builders are done and the new rocket slide is ready for take-off.

From 11am-2pm, there will be roving performers, storytelling and a free barbecue thanks to Project Tauranga partner Placemakers.

There will also be spot prizes up for grabs for children who come dressed in theme.

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.

See what else is happening in and around Tauranga below:

Saturday 12 December

Alcoholics Anonymous

Women's meeting at St Andrews, Dee St 10-11am, children welcome. 0800 229 6757

Baypark Family Speedway

Baypark Busters v Hawkeyes Teams Race & Off Road Racing. The off-road track will use part of the speedway track as well as the infield that will have some jumps built especially for the event. The Kidz Zone has bouncy castles, face painting & more at each event. At ASB Baypark Stadium 6.30-10pm.

Books, CD's, DVDs Wanted

Plus records & puzzles by Mount Lions & Lioness Clubs for their bookfair Jan 30 & 31. Donations appreciated. For drop off points or collection, Christine 575 2144

Christmas Dance

At Greerton Hall, Cameron Rd 7.30pm. BYO drinks & nibbles. Entertainment by Helen Riley. All welcome. Supreme Dance Centre 544 2337 or 027 322 1786

Christmas Dance

At Mt Maunganui Sports Centre, cnr Hull & Maunganui Rds. Ballroom, sequence & oldtime. Dancing from 7.30-11pm. Entry from 7pm. Live band, special supper. Entrance $7. Organised by Mount Scottish Soc. Elizabeth 544 5633

Christmas Fun Day

At Brookfield Community Centre, 16 Millers Rd 1-4pm. Food, games & fun. Presented by Brookfield Community Centre & Good Neighbour.

Ha Derech/The Way Messianic Kehilat

Hillier Centre, Bayfair Shabbat/Saturday 10am. A one new man community & welcome all seekers of the truth. 544 7424 or 021 0226 3515

Mini Craft Market

At Constables Gallery, Commerce Lane, Te Puke 9am start. Homemade fabric gifts, herbs, plants, natural health products, cards, books & more.

Monster Garage Sale

Fundraiser at 50 Sherwood St, Bellevue 8am - 3pm. Find us on facebook: MissandRik'sFUNdraiser for more info.

Rocket Slide Family Fun Day

Memorial Park 11am - 2pm.

Surf's Up – Summer Pool Disco

Games, activities & prizes 6.30-8.30pm. Join the fun. $7 pre-sale. Ages 8-13 years. Tickets from Greerton Aquatic & Leisure Centre. Door sales will be limited. $10.

Te Puke's Christmas in the Park

Presented by Te Puke's Combined Churches at Jubilee Park from 5.30pm. Free food, entertainment & fireworks. Drug & alcohol free event. Bring a picnic blanket & chairs. Gold coin donation from Te Puke's Community Food Bank.

Twelve Days to Christmas

Village Radio

Community radio broadcasting from Tauranga Historic Village 1368 kHz AM. Music of 1920's - 80's weekends 9am - 5pm, weekdays 10am - 5pm. Specialty programmes. www.villageradio.co.nz or 571 3710