ISEZ Pays Tribute to Team Lead – Lands, Tony Auvita, Following His Passing

The ISEZ Project Company mourns the passing of Mr. Tony Lavare Auvita, Team Lead of the Land Development Partnership Program, a respected professional whose life was defined by leadership, integrity, and dedicated service to land and community engagement in Papua New Guinea.

Born on 8 February 1962 in Mt Hagen District, Western Highlands Province, Tony was a devoted husband to Waro Loko, a loving father of five children, and a cherished son of Serah Ovasuru. A committed member of the United Church, he lived a life grounded in faith, humility, and deep respect for people and customary land.

With over three decades of experience in land and community affairs, Tony built an outstanding career serving in senior roles with Chevron Niugini Limited, Oil Search Limited and ExxonMobil PNG Limited. He was widely respected for his deep understanding of customary land systems, his calm and balanced leadership, and his ability to build trust between landowners and project developers.

Tony joined the ISEZ Project Company in 2022, where he served as Team Lead of the Land Development Partnership Program until 2026. In this role, he guided land mobilisation efforts and strengthened stakeholder engagement processes, ensuring that land matters were handled with fairness, transparency, and respect. His mentorship and experience greatly influenced the team and contributed meaningfully to the progress of the ISEZ Project.

Following his passing, the ISEZ management team and staff stood in solidarity with his family. Management made cash and in-kind contributions during an official visit to the haus krai as a sign of appreciation for his service.

Individual staff members, colleagues, and friends — including those from his previous workplaces — also made personal contributions. A group of ISEZ staff accompanied Tony’s body to his home village for burial, and upon handing it over, presented cash and food in accordance with custom.

These acts reflected the unity, compassion, and deep respect in which Tony was held within the ISEZ family and the wider professional community.

Tony Auvita will be remembered as a leader with integrity, a mentor to many, and a dedicated servant to both community and country. His contribution to the ISEZ Project Company and to Papua New Guinea’s land development sector will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

The ISEZ Project Company extends its heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, mother, extended family, and loved ones during this difficult time.

Rest in eternal peace, Tony Lavare Auvita. Your leadership and service will not be forgotten.