Thanks Vandoo,
To clarify, I got it at a show that was focused on jade, and the seller (who made it) identified it as coming from the Kutcho mine in British Columbia. He also had a number of other large pieces made from that mine's jade, and it's much of the same kind. Obviously it's not gem-grade nephrite, but it's still a nice piece.
Not that I'm much of a rockhound, but that sale taught me quite a bit about the different types and colors of jade. I also didn't realize how mottled some pieces could be, although in thinking about it, it should be obvious.
The mere itself is a bit of a revelation. Once you pick it up, you can understand why they were valued as weapons. It's about the same weight as a mid-sized kukri, and the balance is nice too. Now, if I could only find some better instructions on how the maori used it.
Best,
F