Robinson's portfolio of six images included a stunning underwater shot of a rare leopard anemone taken at the Poor Knights Island Marine Reserve and a poignant image of Sir Paul Holmes sharing a moment with daughter Millie Elder at his 2013 investiture.
Judges David Gray of Reuters and Rob Taggart of the Associated Press said Robinson's portfolio of images "showed an ability to shine across all aspects of photojournalism".
Robinson was thrilled with the accolade.
"There have been a lot of great photographers who have won it over the years. The level of photography was insane. I'm really lucky to have won it," he said.
Capturing the anemone was a career highlight and the frame of Sir Paul was "very special".
"The underwater image, it was pretty crazy to photograph natural history happening. I think the photo of Millie and Paul is pretty special too - there is obviously a lot of love in that photo, it was a really special moment."
Image 1 of 6: After years of estrangement from his daughter Millie Elder-Holmes, gravely-ill broadcaster Sir Paul Holmes shares a quiet moment with her at a special ceremony to appoint him a knight of the New Zealand Order of Merit in January last year.
Phibbs' entry was a series of photographs taken in San Francisco at the America's Cup.
The judges said Phibbs showed his talents in capturing the important moments, while including the colourful side of what was one of 2013's biggest stories not only for New Zealand, but also in world sport.
The Herald won 16 Canon awards across print and digital disciplines, more than any other publication.
