Stacey Waaka's move to the NRLW earned her the women's Golden Boot after nine tries in four World Cup games.
Kalyn Ponga claimed the men's award after two standout appearances at fullback for New Zealand.
The awards were presented Thursday at Suncorp Stadium, before Sunday's Brisbane finals between New Zealand and Australia; those matches were excluded from consideration.
Ponga, 28, chose New Zealand to honour his Māori heritage after eligibility changes allowed him to represent the Kiwis and play State of Origin for Queensland.
"I definitely made the right choice and I knew that from the moment I made it," Ponga said.
He broke his forearm against Australia, played on for 20 minutes in the 24-20 loss, then returned 23 days later to earn player of the match in a 34-10 win over Tonga.
Waaka said, "This is for you sisters. I am honoured and blessed because I know how prestigious this award is."