'Taken way too soon': Volleyball player's death prompts call for immunisations

Author: Tom Eley,
Publish Date: Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 4:11pm

Volleyballer Kyla Te Wano Grensill died after contracting meningococcal disease. Photo / Volleyball Waikato

People are being urged to check their whānau’s immunisations are up to date following the death of Waikato woman Kyla Te Wano Grensill, 22, from meningococcal disease.

Te Wano Grensill’s whānau described her as their “beautiful, full of life niece”, saying she was “taken way too soon”.

Health New Zealand Waikato medical officer of health Dr Kate Meerkerk said meningococcal disease was more common in children, teenagers and young adults.

The disease can cause infections around the brain and blood poisoning.

Symptoms can include fever, headache, a stiff neck, sensitivity to light and confusion.

“Our thoughts are with the person’s whānau and loved ones during this difficult time,” Meerkerk said.

She said the meningococcal B vaccine was free for babies and children under 5.

It was also free for people aged 13 to 25 in their first year of certain close-living situations, including boarding school hostels, halls of residence, military barracks, youth justice facilities and prisons.

Meerkerk urged people to be familiar with the symptoms of meningococcal disease and seek medical attention early if they were concerned.

The first symptoms may resemble those of the flu or a cold, but can worsen rapidly, with some people becoming seriously unwell within hours.

Te Wano Grensill was an avid sportswoman and has represented New Zealand in volleyball and inline hockey.

Volleyball Waikato acknowledged her death on social media, saying it was with great sadness that they share the news that “someone very close to our Waikato volleyball community” has recently passed away due to the meningococcal disease.

“This is an incredibly difficult time for their family, friends, teammates and everyone who knew and loved them,” the post reads.

“They have been an integral part of Waikato Volleyball - competing, coaching and volunteering for many years.

“While this news is deeply personal to our community, we also want to make sure everyone is aware of the signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease. It can be a serious illness and can spread through close or prolonged contact.

“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.

“Rest in peace. You will be deeply missed by our volleyball whānau.”

Tom Eley is a multimedia journalist at the Waikato Herald. Before he joined the Hamilton-based team, he worked for the Weekend Sun and Sunlive. He previously worked as a journalist at Black Press Media in Canada and won a fellowship with the Vancouver Sun.