Vaughan is from the Eastern Bay of Plenty tribes Ngai Tai (Tainui) and Whakatohea (Mataatua).  He is married to Jane and they have three children Nikora, Keita and Te Maramatanga.

Vaughan is currently the Policy and Transport Group Manager of the Waikato Regional Council.

Vaughan became involved with community led development and Inspiring Communities when he was the Chief Executive of the Opotiki District Council, seeking to find innovative ways of addressing long standing socio-economic issues in that community. While now living in the economic powerhouse of the Waikato, Vaughan remains passionate about supporting community led development in Opotiki.