Project Marton co-ordinator Cath Ash said it was great for tourists, but not locals for whom the Overlander was their public transport. "We look after those in the city but what about country folk who need the transport?"
Mrs Greener said she and friend Lyn Duncan were train buffs and they travelled a lot.
The two friends caught what was to be the final train in 2006 when the service was to be axed.
"We travelled to Auckland and stayed overnight, then caught the train back. It was to be the final train, but it was saved at the 11th hour," Mrs Greener said.
KiwiRail confirmed yesterday Overlander Wellington staff had retained their jobs or been redeployed to other roles.
About 40 people gathered at Taihape Railway Station as the Overlander pulled in, to protest the cuts. Protest organiser Richard Aslett said it was great to see so many people voicing their opinion about the cuts - including train passengers.
He said a petition - asking for KiwiRail to retain the stops - placed aboard the train at Marton was completely filled with signatures by the time the train pulled into Taihape.