The southern hemisphere's largest agricultural show kicks off today, with farmers in a buoyant mood.

National Fieldays, at Mystery Creek near Hamilton, attracted $130,000 people across four days last year.

ASB rural economist Nathan Penny told Mike Hosking it should be another positive year.

"Things like horticulture and viticulture are very strong, and in particular things like apples and kiwifruit. So expect to see lots of smiles on faces," he said.

Penny said it's not just the dairy sector doing well, farmers are also in a good mood.

"Beef sector in particular has been strong for a number of seasons now. Land prices have lifter to very healthy levels," he said.

LISTEN ABOVE AS NATHAN PENNY SPEAKS WITH MIKE HOSKING