 It begins as a continuation of Karangahape Road from the latter's terminus with Ponsonby Road and Newton Road, and passes through the western suburbs of Arch Hill, Grey Lynn, Western Springs, Point Chevalier, Waterview, Avondale, New Lynn, Kelston, Glendene and Henderson before becoming Swanson Road at the intersection with Lincoln Road.Contrary to its name, the road actually heads west for most of its route, turning to a more north-westerly direction at Kelston.Located on or within walking distance from Great North Road are notable Auckland attractions such as the Museum of Transport and Technology and Auckland Zoo, as well as two major shopping malls, LynnMall and Westfield WestCity.