Yesterday, the local rugby league community and the Invercargill man's whanau were mourning his sudden and "shocking" death.
"We're all in shock down here. It's unbelievable," said Cheryl Officer, Hei Hei family spokeswoman and outgoing chairwoman of the Southland District Rugby League.
She said the player had left the field feeling unwell after Cooks lost 28-20 to He Tauaa.
"We don't know why this happened, and it will become clear over the next two or three days," Ms Officer said.
"But he was in the changing sheds with three or four teammates when he collapsed about an hour after the game. I don't think he realised how unwell he was."
As a teenager, Hei Hei left his hometown to pursue his rugby league career.
As well as playing rugby league in New Zealand, and even a stint in rugby union with Manawatu's NPC team, he was also linked to the Brisbane Broncos' development system and played in the Queensland Cup competition.
But he returned to Invercargill three years ago to "put down hisroots and give back to the local rugby league community", Ms Officer said.
He was studying sports science at Southern Institute of Technology and was Southland District Rugby League's development officer.
"He was a man with so much potential. It's a huge loss for us."
A tangi is expected to be held at Southland District Rugby League clubrooms later this week.
Shocked friends have posted messages and tributes on Hei Hei's Facebook page.
Roxi Campbell said: "This is so sad RIP Eddie Haturini-Hei Hei. Definitely a game not to be forgotten."
Meanwhile Ben Ormond wrote "prayers and thoughts with your whanau".
Underneath Hei Hei's own last Facebook post, in which he urged his friends to come to watch the league game, those who knew him have been paying tribute.
Charly Harvey said: "The last post from one of the greatest guys I ever met, will miss you."
Keith Putt posted: "I remember growing up with you wishing I was half as good at league as you. You will always be remembered by friends and whanau for the legend you are. Rest easy."
Louise Ngakoti said: "I don't fricken believe it, my heart is hurting ... for you bro n your whanau.
"All I can see is you playing rugby league over here in Aussie when I used to come n watch u play in Wynnum. Far out can't believe it."
Tributes were also paid on a family member's Facebook page.
Jan Stephens said: "So sorry to hear about Eddie today, my thoughts and prayers are with u and ur whanau at this very sad time xx."
