The family of the young woman who died of meningococcal disease said she did not have some of the symptoms associated with the illness and had "deteriorated rapidly".
Kyla Te Wano Greensill's parents said they wanted to share her story in hopes of helping others.
"We can't bring Kyla back. But we can tell her story and help more people understand how quickly this disease can move and how difficult the early signs can be to recognise."
They said Kyla had become unwell with what first appeared to be flu-like symptoms and did not have symptoms commonly associated with meningococcal disease, like sensitivity to light.
Her parents also said she was a competitive athlete, and that her sore neck, muscles, and joints had been attributed to sport and recovery.
Kayla had become extremely cold and struggled to warm up but then she appeared to improve.
"She ate dinner, was up talking and watching television, and seemed to be getting better. That gave us a false sense of security."
They said she then "deteriorated rapidly".
"The time between calling the ambulance and facing our new reality was frighteningly short. Meningococcal disease took our girl incredibly quickly."
Kyla's parents said they encouraged people to be vigilant when someone has flu-like symptoms and appears unusually unwell.
They cautioned against attributing symptoms like neck, muscle or joint pain to other causes, particularly for athletes and active young people.
"Trust your instincts. If someone seems seriously unwell, seek medical help. Don't wait for a rash or for every symptom you associate with meningococcal disease to appear. Don't worry about making a fuss."
"If sharing what happened to Kyla means another whānau notices something they might otherwise have dismissed and seeks help sooner, then her story may help save another life. Our beautiful Kyla had just 22 years. It was nowhere near enough."
They said she had been a gifted volleyball player, representing Aotearoa New Zealand internationally, including as a member of the Volley Ferns.
"She was a deeply loved daughter, sister, mokopuna, cousin, niece and friend - and the kind of young woman whose friends' parents happily claimed her as one of their own."
The University of Waikato had also shared that Kyla graduated earlier this year.
In a Facebook post, the university said it was "deeply saddened" by the passing of recent graduate Kyla Te Wano Greensill.
"Kyla graduated earlier this year with a Bachelor of Health, Sport and Human Performance. During her studies, she represented New Zealand internationally, including as a member of the Volley Ferns, while also dedicating years to competing, coaching and volunteering across the Waikato."
The university said she received a University of Waikato Blues Award for her outstanding sporting achievements and contribution to the university and wider community.
"Our hearts go out to Kyla's whānau, friends and peers, and the New Zealand volleyball community."
Volleyball Waikato has also paid tribute to her as "a valued part of our community", as it warned others to watch for signs and symptoms of infection
"It is with great sadness that we share the news that someone very close to our Waikato volleyball community has recently passed away due to the meningococcal disease," the organisation said on Facebook.
"This is an incredibly difficult time for their family, friends, teammates and everyone who knew and loved them. They have been an integral part in Waikato Volleyball - competing, coaching and volunteering for many years.
"They were a valued part of our community, and we ask everyone to please respect the privacy of their family as they navigate this heartbreaking loss," it said.
Earlier, Health NZ Waikato medical officer of health Dr Kate Meerkerk confirmed the death of a young adult in the region.
"Our thoughts are with the person's whānau and loved ones during this difficult time," she said.
Volleyball Waikato said it wanted to ensure everyone was aware of the signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease, which can include fever, headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light and confusion.
The first symptoms of meningococcal disease may seem like the flu or a cold, but the symptoms will usually get worse quickly, with some people suddenly becoming very unwell, sometimes in just a few hours.
"It can be a serious illness and can spread through close or prolonged contact," Volleyball Waikato said.
"The National Public Health Service has advised that close contacts of the individual have been identified and provided with appropriate treatment and support. Other contacts have been assessed as low risk, meaning there is no increased risk to the wider community."
The organisation urged people to familiarise themselves with the symptoms of meningococcal disease and the health risks, and to contact Healthline on 0800 611 116 if they were concerned or needed health advice.
"Rest in peace. You will be deeply missed by our volleyball whānau," it concluded.
Meerkerk said the meningococcal B vaccine was free for babies and children under five years old. It was also free for those between 13 and 25 in their first year of certain close-living situations - such as boarding school hostels, halls of residence, military barracks, youth justice facilities and prisons.
"It is important that people know the symptoms and seek medical attention early if they are concerned," Meerkerk said.
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