Waikato farmers are looking to the future after a down period for the 2016 financial year.

Wool and lamb prices dropped considerably while dairy continued its slide that began in 2014.

Waikato Federated Farmers vice-chairperson Chris Lewis said "there were no real highlights" last year, but he feels optimistic going forward.

Mr Lewis said trade deals the Government is working on, especially with China, could bolster the industry.

"If they pull some of those off and allow a bit more free trade and less tariffs on our products I think that will be something to look forward to."