 Becoming one of few players to play against the Lions in multiple tours, Kaino took part in the first test of the 2017 series on 24 June 2017 by starting at 6 for his home crowd at Eden Park.Kaino was subbed off in the 45th minute, being replaced by Ardie Savea as the All Blacks went on to win 30-15.Kaino was unfortunately subbed off less than 30 minutes into the second test of the Lions series due to the red-carding of Blues teammate Sonny Bill Williams.