Ian Walker has been enjoying his time in Auckland, but all that could be about to change as category four hurricane winds threaten to delay the start of the fifth leg of the Volvo Ocean Race’s leg five.

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Tropical Cyclone Pam could be about to put the wind up the race’s six-strong fleet as they prepare to depart for Brazil on Sunday.

The storm is currently approaching the islands of New Caledonia and Vanuatu, to the north of New Zealand, but is heading south.

It might well pass Auckland, on the northern tip of the country’s north island, but Abu Dhabi Ocean Race skipper Walker is bracing himself for some inclement weather and the start of the race being suspended.

He described news of Pam as “disturbing” and claims race organisers have every right to consider delaying the start of leg five. 

“The weather forecast for Sunday doesn’t look too good, it’s meant to be diabolical and we could possibly see the start of the race delayed,” said the 45-year-old. 

“There’s a category four hurricane blowing 80 knot winds a few hundred miles off the coast of New Zealand at the moment – you never know if it will form properly – but it’s very disturbing and organisers are rightly concerned. 

“They are considering a 24 hour delay and that could turn out to be possibly less or longer depending on how close the storm comes to Auckland. 

“Whenever we leave the weather will be fairly extreme anyway, but we have to plan to leave on Sunday.”

Walker has enjoyed his time in Auckland with him and the rest of Azzam’s crew taking in some rest and relaxation. 

Saturday’s in-port race is at 04:50 (UAE time), with ADOR leading the standings on eight points.